Founded in 2006, the Anderson University Honors Program has always tried to provide outlets for sharing the work that the scholars complete within the program. In the past, some students have been able to share their projects at outside meetings, but this was the first time they presented them on campus to more than just classmates and faculty members.

[Photo: 2012 Anderson University grad Stephanie Stichter, an Honors Program student, presents on her capstone project during Scholars' SOAR.]

Dr. Kimberly Lyle-Ippolito, co-director of the Honors Program, has worked very closely with the Office of Admissions to create a new way for the seniors to present their work. “We wanted to not only advertise what our student can do, but show prospective students who attended Scholar’s SOAR what it looks like to be a senior Honors student,” said Lyle-Ippolito.

“The Honors Senior Capstone is the culmination of undergraduate Honors work,” the syllabus for the class reads. It creates an opportunity for the students to not only reflect on their three years of experience in the Honors Program but also to consider the topics that they have studied in their major more formally.

“In this course, they design and implement their own projects,” said Dr. Linda Swindell, who recently retired as professor of psychology. Swindell taught the senior seminar since its introduction. “It is not your typical regurgitation of information. It is an analysis, and then we expect them to answer a question or to present an idea that is groundbreaking at some level.”

The students were not expected to execute the project completely on their own, though. “Each student has a sponsor, and you become very involved in working with your student,” said Lyle-Ippolito, who served as a sponsor this year as well. The sponsors also evaluated the final project and provided the student’s grade to Swindell.

Senior Stephanie Stichter, an athletic training major, selected a topic that was both of interest to her and applicable to her major. “My project looked at the relationship between the hygiene practices of athletes and the contraction of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). I chose this topic because it was a condition that we deal with as athletic trainers, and I did not know much about it.”

Daniel Kelsey, a Christian ministries major with a youth leadership-development complementary major, is also a senior in the Honors Program. His project used the knowledge of the Christian faith that he has been developing through his major to study the concept of time in relation to Christianity. “I looked at some of the different ways time has been conceptualized around the world and what some of the benefits could be for Christians if they choose to look at time both linearly and cyclically.”

Melissa Tucker, a senior education major, observed a classroom during her first semester teaching practicum and found an area that needed improvement. “In this instance, it was the use of problem-solving by high ability 3rd and 4th grade students,” she said. She based the idea on a project from another class, which is relatively common in the senior seminar, but she went more in-depth for the Honors project. “In the next several weeks, I completed a literature review of research currently in the field, collected baseline data, created a plan of action, implemented my action plan for two weeks, and then completed a full analysis of the whole experience.”

The seniors meet once a week during fall semester, and spend a lot of time meeting with their sponsors both in the fall and the spring. Kelsey, Stichter, and Tucker all enjoyed this class set up for their senior year. “I enjoyed being able to spend one last semester with my cohort. I also liked that the schedule was flexible to work around our busy senior schedules,” said Stichter.

During Scholars’ SOAR, the prospective students had the opportunity to choose which projects they would like to hear about. Additionally, the presentations were open for public viewing.

— Marissa Phillips is a junior from Brookville, Ohio, majoring in communication arts. Phillips is an associate with Fifth Street Communications^™, writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

“With a combined total of 123 years of service, these individuals have invested their lives in Anderson University and its students,” said Dr. Blake Janutolo, dean of the College of Science and Humanities. “Each one has served as an exemplary faculty member, and each will be missed as they begin a new chapter in their lives.”

[Photo: Anderson University recently honored retiring faculty (pictured from left) Prof. Paul Gray, Dr. Linda Swindell, Prof. Zola Noble, and Dr. Ken Turner.]

Paul Gray, professor of kinesiology, joined the AU faculty in 1978 and has served the university for 34 years. He received his B.A. from Anderson University, his M.A. from Ball State University, and is currently finishing his doctorate at Ball State.

At AU, Gray coached football, wrestling, and golf. He is an expert in adaptive physical education and is known within his department for his expertise in using technology in the classroom. He has also been a long-time advocate for Special Olympics.

“As director of the Madison County Chapter of Special Olympics, Paul took a struggling program and, with the help of others in the community and university, turned it into a model of what a local chapter of Special Olympics should be,” said Janutolo. “In the process, he introduced hundreds of AU students to Special Olympians and by doing so changed their perception of what it means to work with persons who have special needs.”

Zola Noble, associate professor English, joined the AU faculty in 1993, but taught as a full-time adjunct for five years prior to this. In all, she has served the university for 24 years. Noble received her B.S. from Anderson University, M.S. from St. Francis College, and MFA from Spaulding University.

Noble is an accomplished author, with articles appearing in several journals and magazines. Some of her articles include “Back Roads Attractions,” published in The New Southerner, “An Ordinary Woman: Sarah McIntyre of Saltville, Virginia,” published in The Smithfield Review, and “Sitting in Church,” published in 94 Creations.

“Zola has put in many hours grading papers and helping our students become better writers,” said Janutolo. “She has made a difference in the lives of so many of our students.”

Dr. Linda Swindell, professor of psychology, joined the AU faculty in 1993 and has served the university for 19 years. She received her B.A. from the University of Hawaii, and her M.A. and Ph.D. from Arizona State University.

Swindell came to AU after teaching at the University of Mississippi. At AU, she served as director of the Liberal Arts Seminar Program from 2000-2006 and as chair of the Psychology Department since 2009.

“Dr. Swindell is recognized by her students and peers and a master teacher,” said Janutolo. “She cares deeply about her students and has invested large amounts of time in preparing them for graduate school or careers in psychology. Loved and respected by her students, Linda is a role model for what it means to be a professor.”

Dr. Ken Turner, professor of mathematics, director of statistics, and chair of the Math Department, joined the AU faculty in 1966 and has served the university for 46 years. He received his B.A. from Anderson University, M.A. from Ball State University, and Ph.D. from Purdue University.

During his time at AU, Turner developed a strong statistics program and authored or coauthored three major statistics textbooks. His Fundamental Concepts in Design of Experiments has been adopted at schools including Cornell University and South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, and is often used a reference text by those in industry.

“Over the years I have greatly appreciated Ken’s insight into the workings of the university,” said Janutolo. “In his own gentle way, he has always been willing to point out our flaws and inconsistencies with constructive suggestions for improvement, and at the same time congratulating us on our strengths and accomplishments.”

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

It had been a lot of hard work, but the Mishawaka women said there was much fun mixed in with that dedication and they would miss their experiences from college.

They were just two of 645 who graduated from AU on Saturday afternoon at the Kardatzke Wellness Center.

“It’s scary but awesome,” Elizabeth Barwick said of her feelings about graduation. “I don’t want to leave everyone, but I’m excited about all the opportunities ahead of me.”

Both graduated with bachelor’s degrees while majoring in mathematics education. Elizabeth wants to move back closer to the Mishawaka area, while Katherine plans to look for a teaching job in the Anderson area.

[Photo: Carl Erskine addresses graduates during commencement on Saturday, May 5.]

“We got a really, really good education,” Katherine Barwick said. “I’m grateful for that. I know people are looking for AU graduates for education jobs.”

Bracken Henry of Mount Gilead, Ohio, and David Herron of St. Louis were both graduating with master’s degrees in business administration. Henry had graduated with his undergraduate degree from AU, while Herron, 38, came through the program as a nontraditional student.

“I took my time to get this, and I’m very satisfied to be here today,” Herron said. “I was impressed with the program and staff. Everything was outstanding.”

Henry said he “loved” the program. His advice to future students would be to be ready to work hard.

“It is not easy, and it’s a lot of hard work,” he said.

Herron’s advice, he said, may seem silly but is sincere.

“Take advantage of as many experiences as you can so you can get the most out of the program as you possibly can,” he said.

The graduates weren’t the only ones who were having a hard time hiding their glee. Friends and family of the students packed the Wellness Center, many lining up outside, camera in hand, waiting for the graduates to march past.

Michael and Dawn Anderson — AU grads themselves — came from Akron, Ohio, to see a former co-worker and friend graduate with her doctorate.

“She has worked so hard to get here,” Michael Anderson said. “We wanted to show our support for all of that hard work.”

Dawn Anderson said she did a lot of pushing and supporting of her friend, especially in the beginning.

“I strongly believe in education, and I knew it was something that was important for her to do,” she said. “I really just helped her know she could do it. And she did, yea!”

Terry and Ruth Canfield, of Akron, came to see their son Nate Canfield graduate with a bachelor’s. He majored in business management with a concentration on nonprofits.

“We love the school and are so glad they chose Anderson,” Ruth Canfield said.

Terry Canfield, a Church of God pastor, said having both sons graduate from AU was an “answered” prayer.

“I’m so proud and excited,” he said. “We are just thrilled.”

Commencement speaker Carl Erskine — former Major League Baseball player and sports legend of Anderson — focused on taking leaps. In this Leap Year, the graduating class is about to take the biggest leap of their lives, he said.

Erskine talked at length about the leaps taken by his team, the Brooklyn Dodgers, in recruiting Jackie Robinson — the MLB’s first black player. Erskine related many of the benefits of that risk. Later, Erskine recalled how friends and family took a leap of faith when it came to the birth of Betty and his son Jimmy, born with Down Syndrome.

“The world was no more ready for Jimmy than it was for Jackie (Robinson),” Erskine said. But quickly he noticed a change and said he continues to see the change today.

At the end of his address, Erskine showed his World Series ring and a gold medal Jimmy had won swimming in the Special Olympics, an organization he continues to champion.

Erskine asked the graduates which one meant more. Are you getting the most out of what you’ve been given, he asked.

“As you leap into your next life class,” Erskine said, “you will find something — others may not remember what you said, others may not remember what you did, but everybody will remember how you made them feel.”

AU President James Edwards reminded students that graduation was a time to count your blessings but also a time to count your debts. And while his statement was followed with laughter, Edwards was quick to say he wasn’t just talking about student loans.

— Abbey Doyle is a reporter for The Herald Bulletin. Reposted with permission. Photo credit: Don Knight.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

Aleza Beverly, dean of the School of Adult Learning, has been the director of summer classes since the mid 1990s. She is an advocate for taking summer classes. “It gives students a chance to jump ahead on hours or to make up hours that they have not been able to do during the regular semester,” said Beverly.

Summer classes can work for any student, even those who cannot stay at AU for the summer. “Reading courses are a type of independent study where the instructor gives the student the syllabus and then they turn the work in later,” said Beverly. They also require a GPA of at least 2.5. Tutorial classes do not require minimum GPA, but they require the instructor and the student to remain in contact throughout the summer. “Tutorial courses give more structure to the independent study,” said Beverly.

Dr. Jaye Rogers, associate professor of history, has been teaching summer classes since she started working at AU 16 years ago. However, when she began her college career, these types of classes were hard to find. “When I started college at 26, with two small children, there were no online courses anywhere,” said Rogers. “It was enormously difficult and expensive to arrange childcare to fit with my class schedule.” She is now very supportive of online classes. “They offer all students — but especially nontraditional students — a way to fulfill academic requirements while also juggling their many other responsibilities.”

Rogers also enjoys the opportunity summer classes offer to get to know her students in a more personal way. “I find that I get to know a little more about my students during summer courses because a face-to-face class that lasts four weeks is a little more intimate,” said Rogers. “We are all just more relaxed, and that allows all of us to be more engaged in the classroom.”

Summer classes also offer many benefits for traditional students, many of whom may have a hard time finishing their major in just four years. Summer classes allow them to lighten their schedule during the school year or to add another major or minor before they graduate. Many students are even able to graduate early because of summer classes. Christie Combs, who majored in accounting and minored in finance and management at AU, was able to graduate early in December 2011 because of the summer classes she took throughout her college career. “It would have been nearly impossible to graduate in three and a half years with 150 credit hours without taking summer classes,” said Combs.

Graduating early is typically a significant reason for students to participate in summer classes, and many may complete internships for credit in the summer. Scheduling hours to complete an internship with a business is often easier in the summer, and for some students this may even lead to a full-time job.

“The internships I did over the past summers for credit led to my internship last summer, which eventually helped me obtain my current full-time job,” said Combs. She now works for Defense Finance and Accounting Services, where she interned during the summer of 2011 and worked part-time during her final semester at AU.

Summer classes can be scheduled with the registrar through May 7, the first day of summer classes.

— Marissa Phillips is a junior from Brookville, Ohio, majoring in communication arts. Phillips is an associate with Fifth Street Communications^™, writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

“At Anderson University, we believe experiential learning is important,” said chemistry professor and Scholars’ Day organizer Dr. Chad Wallace. “We believe that learning is best accomplished by doing. What does real scholarship look like? You will find it in these presentations.”

[Photo: Student Chelsea Whyte discusses her research during Scholars’ Day on April 24, 2012.]

Participants created abstracts of their research, which were compiled into a program booklet.

See Scholars’ Day Abstracts [PDF]

Senior Kirsten Milliron developed a 60-page screenplay adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ The Horse and His Boy. This was a significant undertaking for Milliron, who has had more experience writing shorter pieces.

“Doing this project was a dream I had had for several years,” Milliron said. “I feel really accomplished that I did something like this. … If I ever have a film company hire me to do an adaptation, I have experience under my belt now.”

Senior psychology major Matthew Danskey presented research on lucid dream recall. While the subject itself is fascinating for him, the entire research and presentation process was equally important.

“Taking a piece of research from beginning to end and coming out with something finished and polished is pretty fun,” Danskey said. “My plans are to get a doctorate in psychology, so being familiar with research and presenting is definitely going to be handy.”

Senior nursing major Katelyn Veal collected data for her research before and during an international nursing trip to the United Kingdom. She studied the national health care system in the UK and the ways in which nurses are beginning to participate in clinical commissioning groups.

“I’m really interested in public health, and I want nurses to be more aware of opportunities to stay involved on a national level within their health care system,” said Veal. “This research will definitely be applied to my nursing practice as I graduate and work as a bedside nurse, staying aware of opportunities to impact on a bigger level than just at the bedside.”

Senior chemistry major Brandon Hensley analyzed water samples to detect levels of benzyl benzoate using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The highlight for Hensley was using the GC-MS machine.

“I was curious to see what was in the water, and I got to analyze that,” he said. “It was interesting to be able to run my own experiments and find something out that I don’t think anyone [at AU] has looked at before.”

Scholars’ Day 2012 participants included:

• Kayla Lighty (Psychology): “Adult sibling relationships and communications”
• Samantha Holder (Nursing): “Gender’s impact on prenatal care in India”
• Ryan Bowser, Kent Shilts (Chemistry/Physics): “Metal diethenoylmethanates and tetrathenoylethanates as microporous metal-organic frameworks”
• Emily Thalls (Psychology): “Effects of gender and body mass index on body image”
• Wes Becker, Jeremy Redman (Business): “Raven Investment Fund”
• Samantha Anderson (English): “The history of swing dancing and why it’s important to know it”
• Chelsea Whyte (Honors): “A Christian ethical reflection on the community’s response to the Chicago housing crisis”
• Alisha Sink (Psychology): “Investigating the effects of environmental stimuli on affective responses and perceptions”
• Jared Bickle (Kinesiology): “The effects of mode exercise on stress levels”
• Kelly E. Frye (Honors): “An age-old epidemic: Cholera outbreaks in the past decade”
• Kirsten Milliron (English): “The Horse and His Boy: A screenplay adaptation”
• Daniel Kelsey (Religious Studies): “The effect of the concept of time on the practice of Christianity”
• Andrea Whitacre (English): “Social ethics and the fall of heroism: Myth, magic, and religion in Gisla Saga Surssonar”
• Abbie Mason (Psychology): “The effect of birth order on preferred study environment”
• Matthew Danskey (Psychology): “The effects of a two-week reflection-intention training program on lucid dream recall frequency: A replication”
• Katelyn Veal (Nursing): “Clinical commissioning in the United Kingdom and the involvement of nurses”
• Meredith Tarplee (Psychology): “The impact of mentoring on the emotional intelligence of middle school girls”
• Sin Hea Yeom (Chemistry/Physics): “X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) and art”
• Matthew Bursley (Biology): “The anti-bacterial of Carica papaya leaf extracts”
• Neil Eliason (Psychology): “Personality differences among nursing, psychology, and computer science”
• Brandon Hensley (Chemistry/Physics): “Analysis of benzyl benzoate in water samples by solid phase extraction and GC-MS analysis”
• Ryan Petter (Business): “Economic consequences of recent conflict in Liberia”
• Charles Goodrich (Chemistry/Physics): “X-ray fluorescence analysis of pottery”
• Sarah Conway (Psychology): “Growth from pain: The effects of counseling, spirituality, and gender on posttraumatic growth”
• Kim Lundstrom (Nursing): “Unmet expectations of internationally recruited nurses working in Britain’s National Health Service (NHS)”
• Melissa Tucker (Education): “Increasing creative and critical thinking of gifted and talented students”

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

“This chapel was an opportunity for us to celebrate the amazing work that goes on as our students, staff, and faculty have served our community over the course of the year,” said Stephanie Moran, director of the Community Partnership Center at AU. “As the university continues to commit itself to preparing students for a life of faith and service, this chapel is a way to honor that commitment.”

Individuals recognized for awards include:

• AmeriCorps Student Engagement Award: Lauren Cantrell, Sarah Conway, Heather Gruber, Michael Heckendorn, Ben Herrick, Rachael Huddy, Ashley Ledford, Jon Maxwell, Ruben Orozco, Carmen Oswalt, Meredith Tarplee, Kylene Wilder
• International Students of Service: LaToya Francis, Amrutha Pulikottil, Nabin Timsina
• Community Responder Award: Sarah Russell
• Community Partner of the Year Award: Park Place Community Center
• Faculty awards: Dr. Tim Fox and Dr. Rebecca Hull
• Staff Community Partner Award: Pauletta Swank
• 2012 Newman Civic Fellow: Ryan Petter

Park Place Community Center has provided real-time learning experiences for students in various areas of study including education, social work, kinesiology, ministry, and others. AU students have participated in the Center’s food pantry, after-school programs, mentoring programs, and special events.

Dr. Timothy Fox, professor of Spanish, has been committed to service learning with his students. Fox and his students have translated documents into Spanish for United Way of Madison County, and recently translated the City of Anderson’s bus route. The students also have helped translate birth certificates and driver’s licenses for recent immigrants from Mexico and Central America.

“These translations give our students some real-life experience in translating actual documents and all the nuances involved in translation,” Fox said. “It also gives them the satisfaction of helping the community.”

Dr. Rebecca Hull, professor of kinesiology, has worked with the community for decades, supervising such programs a gym class for home-school children. More than 70 families and 150 children participate each year in the home-school program, which was created by Gertrude Wunsch, professor emerita of physical education.

“The program is a win-win situation,” said Hull. “Our AU students polish their teaching skills while the homeschool children get a well-balanced, physically active, and fun program.”

Hull, along with AU Wellness Program Director Connie Hippensteel, recently acquired grant funding to establish a wellness challenge program for employees at Madison County Community Health Center.

Pauletta Swank, office manager and training coordinator in the Human Resources Office, has worked with community partners and local agencies to provide employment for AU students through the work-study program. She has also worked to coordinate volunteers for Colts Camp at AU. Agencies across the city of Anderson have noted her reputation as a representative of AU and her commitment to service.

Sarah Russell was recognized for the Community Responder Award for her work with Operation Foundation, a student-run, weeklong service project that seeks to bring physical restoration to the city of Anderson. The project is in its fourth year.

The Newman Civic Fellow Award is dedicated to acknowledging and creating opportunity for emerging civic leaders, as nominated by Campus Compact’s member college and university presidents. Nominated by AU President Dr. James L. Edwards, Ryan Petter has developed business applications for an orphanage in Zambia, set up a computer network for a hospital in Ghana, and helped build a home in Mexico, in addition to service involvement in Anderson community.

“Ryan’s commitment to combating poverty through economic development offers long term hope,” said Edwards. “He is both inspired and inspiring.”

The AmeriCorps Student Engagement Award recognizes students who have logged more than 300 hours of service through the AmeriCorps program.

Due to their international status, Francis, Pulikottil, and Timsina did not qualify for the AmeriCorps Award, but they were still committed to community service throughout the year.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

Not everyone who applies for this grant receives it. “It’s a competitive grant, so there are usually less than five schools that get it in a year,” said Hull. “It’s also a matching grant, so the hope is that whoever gets this grant will find another group who matches it dollar for dollar. The grant maxes out at $2,000 so that’s what we received, and MCCHC had to match the $2,000.”

Hull enlisted the help of AU Wellness Program Director Connie Hippensteel for the project. “I quickly realized this was something that would be a great opportunity for our students and Connie oversees our students in teaching group exercise, so bringing her in to ask her opinions on ideas has been very beneficial,” said Hull.
Hippensteel was eager to work on the program because of the benefit for students. “I was interested because I teach in the exercise science department and we’re always looking for internships for our students and this would be a good possibility. And I’m looking for places for students to get an opportunity to teach group exercise,” said Hippensteel. “We are starting the program, but we really want to get the AU students involved.”

Hull and Hippensteel began writing the grant proposal in March 2011 and submitted it in May. They got final notification that they had received the grant in November and quickly put the program together so they could start in January 2012.

The program they designed is a free six-week series for MCCHC employees that educates and demonstrates wellness. On Mondays, the focus of the session is education, which covers a different topic every week. “The six weeks will cover the benefits of wellness, the basics of strength training, healthy backs, healthy eating, sensible weight loss, and stress reduction,” said Hull.

On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the sessions’ focus is physical exercise, which includes a range of cardio and strength training exercises. For the first half hour, participants do a cardio workout, such as Zumba, and for the second half hour they do muscle exercises. Each time, a different set of muscles will be targeted, including arms, abs, and legs.

Hull and Hippensteel teach the education sessions while AU students lead the workouts. Senior fine arts studio major Tiernae Salley and senior psychology major Courtney Redman lead the Zumba workout while junior exercise science major Ashley Kern will lead the core-strengthening exercises.

So far, 13 of MCCHC’s 50 employees have registered for the program. “We were hoping for one-third to one-half of their employees,” said Hull. “We hope that we’ll have a different group of 13 to 15 people for our second six-week session. If we get 30 out of 50 of their staff, that’s over 50 percent and that would be above the averages we would expect.”

According to statistics included in their grant, Indiana has nearly 3.7 million overweight or obese adults and Madison County has one of the highest rates of obesity in the state. “Madison County is ranked one of the lowest in health indicators in the state of Indiana. There’s a high amount of smokers,” said Hippensteel. Hull added, “Madison County is ranked 75 out of 92 in health outcomes and 84 out of 92 in health factors. So we proposed this program to see if we could make a difference.”

For those eight people who braved the snow and ice on Jan. 19, this program certainly is making a difference. “We introduced pedometers to the group and the challenge was to see if you could get a mile of activity in our time frame. And most of them did,” said Hull. “It was like they were electrified when they put those pedometers on. They just started moving and they didn’t stop! Even when the session ended, one lady just kept walking and walking. I said, ‘It’s okay if you stop now because our session for the evening is over.’ And she said, ‘Oh no! I have to get to 2,000 steps at least!’ So she stayed until she got them done. It was a fun, pleasant, inviting, exercise session.”

–Alyssa Applegate is a senior from Dayton, Ohio, majoring in communication arts and minoring in Spanish. Applegate is an associate with Fifth Street CommunicationsTM, writing on behalf of Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

Kutz is one of approximately 1,100 U.S. faculty and professionals who will travel abroad through the Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program in 2012-2013.

The Fulbright Program is the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government and is designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries. The primary source of funding for the Fulbright Program is an annual appropriation made by the U.S. Congress to the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Participating governments and host institutions, corporations and foundations in foreign countries and in the United States also provide direct and indirect support. Recipients of Fulbright grants are selected on the basis of academic or professional achievement, as well as demonstrated leadership potential in their fields. The Program operates in over 155 countries worldwide.

Since its establishment in 1946 under legislation introduced by the late U.S. Senator J. William Fulbright of Arkansas, the Fulbright Program has given approximately 300,000 students, scholars, teachers, artists, and scientists the opportunity to study, teach and conduct research, exchange ideas and contribute to finding solutions to shared international concerns.

Fulbright alumni have achieved distinction in government, science, the arts, business, philanthropy, education, and athletics. Forty-three Fulbright alumni from 11 countries have been awarded the Nobel Prize, and 75 alumni have received Pulitzer Prizes, and many other prestigious honors, awards, and positions.

Fulbright recipients are among over 40,000 individuals participating in U.S. Department of State exchange programs each year. For more than sixty years, the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs has funded and supported programs that seek to promote mutual understanding and respect between the people of the United States and the people of other countries. The Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program is administered by the Council for International Exchange of Scholars, a division of the Institute of International Education.
For further information about the Fulbright Program or the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, please visit our website at http://fulbright.state.gov or contact James A. Lawrence, Office of Academic Exchange Programs, telephone 202-632-3241 or e-mail fulbright@state.gov.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

During commencement, Anderson University will award four honorary degrees. Anderson University will award John E. Wilson, AU alum and basketball legend, with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters; Lois A. Settlemeyer, former scientist with Dow Chemical and past member of the Anderson University Board of Trustees, with an honorary Doctor of Letters; Dr. Frank Campbell, longtime Anderson physician, with the honorary Doctor of Humane Letters; and Charles Dickmann, renowned Anderson attorney and community philanthropist with the honorary Doctor of Humane Letters.

A live webcast of the full commencement program will be streamed at www.anderson.edu/commencement/webcast. Coverage will begin at 3 p.m. EDT.

Other events scheduled during Anderson University’s commencement day on May 5 include the Falls School of Business hooding ceremony at 11:30 a.m. in Byrum Hall for candidates of both Master of Business Administration and Doctor of Business Administration degrees.

Related events scheduled prior to commencement include the School of Theology Senior Recognition and Awards Chapel on Tuesday, April 24, at 11 a.m. in Miller Chapel. The hooding ceremony for the Doctor of Ministry graduates will take place on Friday, May 4, at 6 p.m. in Miller Chapel.

The hooding ceremony for the Master of Education and the Master of Music Education will be conducted on Thursday, May 3, at 6 p.m. in the Reardon Auditorium Lobby. The certification ceremony for the Teach for Indiana Program (TIP) will be conducted on Saturday, May 5, at 11 a.m. in Decker Hall, Room 133.

A special pinning ceremony for the Anderson University School of Nursing will be conducted on Friday, May 4, at 6 p.m. in Reardon Auditorium.

Carl Erskine was a pitcher for the Brooklyn and Los Angeles Dodgers from 1948 through 1959. He was a pitching mainstay on Dodger teams that won five National League pennants, peaking with a 1953 season in which he won 20 games and set a World Series record with 14 strikeouts. He pitched two no-hitters during his career. A native of Anderson, Ind., he returned to the community after his baseball career. He coached the Anderson University baseball team for 12 years, guiding them through four championship seasons. He retired from an executive position at STAR Financial Bank. He is a trustee emeritus of the Board of Trustees for Anderson University where he served for many years. He continues to devote time to Anderson University and the Anderson community. Included among the books Erskine has authored is What I Learned From Jackie Robinson: A Teammate’s Reflections On and Off the Field.

John E. Wilson, known on the Anderson University campus in the 1940s as “Jumpin’ Johnny,” made his mark on the sports of basketball and baseball. After high school, Wilson came to Anderson University and quickly became a star player. He earned 11 letters, was selected All-conference three times, team MVP three times, named an All-American twice, and once finished third in the nation in scoring. Wilson still holds the school record for career scoring average and season scoring average. After leaving AU, Wilson played baseball for one year with the Chicago American Giants in the Negro Leagues before playing basketball for the Harlem Globetrotters from 1949 to 1954. Wilson returned to AU in 1970 to finish his bachelor’s degree in education. He earned a master’s degree in education from Indiana State University and has coached at the high school and college levels. He is a member of the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame, the Anderson Black Expo Basketball Hall of Fame, and the AU Athletic Hall of Fame.

Lois Settlemeyer earned a bachelor’s degree from Anderson University in 1966 and a Master of Ministry from the Anderson University School of Theology in 1978. Relying on her undergraduate studies in chemistry and mathematics, she worked for Dow Chemical Company for 31 years using her skills in research, analysis, and technical problem solving. Retiring from her work as a development scientist, Lois moved to the Northwest. She expanded her interest in photography and is now an award-winning photographer of macro and landscape photos. Lois also dedicated 15 years as a trustee for Anderson University.

Dr. Frank Campbell earned his medical degree from the Indiana University School of Medicine. He worked in a private medical practice in Anderson, Ind., for 30 years and served as chief of staff at Community Hospital. In 1996, he took time away from his practice to care for his aging father. He returned to practice in 2007 at the Madison County Community Health Center, where he continues to serve as medical director. He also serves on the Saint John’s Health System’s Foundation Board. Last fall, the Anderson University School of Nursing honored Campbell with the 2011 Friend of Nursing Award.

Charles Dickmann served as an attorney in the Anderson community for 62 years with Sansberry Dickmann Freeman & Builta. He continues to provide counsel for the firm. A native of Hancock County, Ind., he holds bachelor and law degrees from Indiana University. Before pursuing his education, Dickmann served in the military during World War II. He was drafted as a private in December 1941 and served in North Africa, Sicily, and Italy during the war. By end of the war, he was promoted to the rank of captain. Since coming to Anderson in the early 1950s, Dickmann has remained active in the community, providing leadership on countless boards. He was named the Anderson Herald Bulletin “Man of the Year” in 1985 and was inducted into the Madison County Junior Achievement Business Leaders Hall of Fame in 1986.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

The event, the first of its kind at AU, will offer prospective students the opportunity to interact with professors and current students, tour departments, and explore different areas of study at AU.

See the Academic Departmental Open House Flyer [PDF].

The Admissions Office traditionally offers visit days year-round and individual departmental visit days in the fall. The creation of this event was a response to departmental requests for an additional visit day in the spring semester and research from other colleges.

“Our hope is to bring a lot of potential students and families to campus and enable them to make those final decisions by facilitating interactions between them and key people in the departments,” said Admissions Event Coordinator Audrey Weiger.

The event is designed especially for prospective students who have already been accepted to the university. The invitation has been extended to these students and their families as way to get a more in-depth look into key programs and facilities offered at AU. “One of the best ways to make a final college decision is to hone in on different departments,” said Weiger.

The Academic Departmental Open House will take place in the following locations on campus:

• Art and Design – Krannert Fine Arts Building
• Biology – Hartung (Second Floor)
• Falls School of Business – Hardacre Hall
• Chemistry and Physics – Hartung Hall (Third Floor)
• Communication – Broadcasting Center
• Computer Science – Decker Hall (Third Floor)
• School of Education – Decker Hall (Third Floor)
• English – Decker Hall (Third Floor)
• History and Political Science – Decker Hall (Third Floor)
• Kinesiology – Kardatzke Wellness Center
• Mathematics – Decker Hall (Third Floor)
• Modern Foreign Languages – Decker Hall (Third Floor)
• School of Music – Krannert Fine Arts Building
• School of Nursing – Hartung Hall (Third Floor)
• Psychology – Hartung Hall (First Floor)
• Religious Studies – Hartung Hall (First Floor)
• Sociology, Social Work, Criminal Justice, and Family Science – Decker Hall (Second Floor)

Parking will be available near the soccer fields (location 31 on the AU campus map) and shuttle transportation will be available to and from the academic location(s). Admissions personnel will be present to provide assistance. Registration is not required to attend the event.

To learn more about the Academic Departmental Open House, contact the AU Office of Admissions by phone at (765) 641-4080 or by email at info@anderson.edu.

— Katie Price is a senior from Kokomo, Ind., majoring in fine arts and minoring in public relations. Price is writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

Crosby thrived at AU from 2004 until his graduation in the spring of 2008, when he earned a degree in athletic training. After he crossed the stage and received the diploma for which he worked relentlessly, Crosby turned his attentions to graduate school. He attended Ball State University, where he earned a master’s degree in sport performance.

Crosby worked as an athletic trainer for a high school in Chicago for a year, but his goal was to work in a university setting. It wasn’t long before he received a call from Steve “Doc” Risinger, director of sports medicine and head athletic trainer at AU.

“Doc called me up in July and he told me to come back and interview for an opening in the athletic training department,” Crosby said. “We had a great relationship when I was a student. He had a lot to teach and I asked a lot of questions. He appreciated that.”

Crosby got the job as the new assistant athletic trainer and served as the head athletic trainer for both the men’s soccer and women’s soccer teams.

But the season was not without difficulty for him. He returned home to Anderson late one night after a road game and went to bed with a headache.

“It was just a headache,” Crosby said. “I really didn’t think anything of it.” Crosby woke up barely an hour later with severe nausea, and the headache had intensified. Unable to get back to sleep as a result of the sickness that had suddenly overtaken him, Crosby rushed to the hospital. “They thought it was just a bad flu at first, but then they did an MRI and a CT scan and that’s when they found it,” Crosby said.

The doctors found a tumor the size of a golf ball pressing up against the young athletic trainer’s pituitary gland. “It stroked,” Crosby said. “The tumor did, not me. But when it did, that’s what caused all the symptoms.” After spending four days in an Indianapolis hospital and enduring a series of tests and medications, Crosby returned home. With the help of rest and medication the tumor is now shrinking. “It’s not life-threatening,” Crosby said, “but it is life-changing.”

“AU was great to me the whole time,” Crosby said. “Everybody helped out and covered my classes and teams. There were no pressures at all to rush back.” But he couldn’t wait to return to work. “It’s a great environment,” Crosby said. “It’s a Christian environment. The facilities are top-notch. It’s everything you want in one place.”

Crosby returned to the training room around Christmas break. He loved working with the soccer team, interacting with the student-athletes and the laid-back atmosphere of the athletic training facilities. For the spring semester, Crosby will serve as the head trainer for the AU men’s baseball team.

“I love this place,” Crosby said. “It really just doesn’t feel like work.”

— Kyle Beckman is a senior from Auburn, Ind., majoring in communication arts and business/information systems and minoring in political science. Beckman is an associate with Fifth Street Communications™
, writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

“Going through intense rehab and being around physical therapists, orthopedic doctors, and athletic trainers, and seeing their love and devotion toward their patients and athletes, I learned I wanted to be just like them someday,” Donaghy said.

Donaghy has played sports her entire life and continues to compete at the highest level as she is an integral leader on the women’s volleyball team. The Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference recognized Donaghy’s excellence and hard work with First Team All-Conference honors at the conclusion of this past season.

The athletic training program at AU challenges students with a rigorous course load and a considerable time commitment of logging hands-on hours with the different varsity athletic teams. “When I came to the athletic training Discovery Day in March of 2008, I fell in love with the AT staff and the amazing sports medicine center,” said Donaghy.

In the fall semester of 2010, Donaghy learned of an athletic training internship at IMG Performance Academies in Bradenton, Fla., and she jumped at the opportunity. “I requested more information immediately,” Donaghy said. “They responded quickly asking for a résumé, a letter telling them why I wanted to work with them, and three recommendation letters.” After she submitted all of the requested materials, Donaghy waited for the interview process to begin.

When spring break rolled around, Donaghy traveled Florida and took time out of her vacation to visit the IMG campus. “I met with the director and the head ATC, and then I got a tour of the 500-acre campus,” said Donaghy. She believes that this visit worked to her advantage, as she was ultimately selected for the internship.

The internship began on May 28 and ended August 10. “That summer gave me tons of practice and confidence to grow on,” Donaghy said.

Her days started at 7 a.m. with taping, evaluating, treating, and stretching athletes. She would move on to cover practices on the basketball courts or at the lacrosse, football, or baseball fields. In the afternoons, Donaghy repeated her routine of treatments and practice coverage until 5 or 6 p.m. At the end of her work day, often a 10-hour day, Donaghy kept her upcoming senior volleyball season in mind and mustered the energy to work out.

On the job, Donaghy came into contact with a number of high profile athletes. IMG hosted the NFL Rookie Symposium, so she ran into Cam Newton and other popular athletes. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers held camp at IMG, Olympic sprinters trained at the Bradenton campus, and Under Armor held football tournaments for the highest rated and most talented high school players in the country at the facility.

Contact with these athletes, along with networking with professionals in the athletic training field sent Donaghy back to Indiana with invaluable experience. “I learned so many new manual techniques and rehab ideas,” said Donaghy. “And I got to meet so many different people and now have connections with people from all over the world.”

— Kyle Beckman is a senior from Auburn, Ind., majoring in communication arts and business/information systems and minoring in political science. Beckman is an associate with Fifth Street Communications™, writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

An Anderson, Ind., native, Hull grew up in a time when girls were not allowed to play sports. “I was the consummate tomboy,” Hull said. She played wiffle ball and basketball, and rode bikes with the kids in the neighborhood. She had three brothers and she kept up, although she retained some jealous sentiment because her brothers could compete in athletics in high school and she could not. It simply was not a part of the culture of the time.

Once she reached high school, she could only cheer for the athletic teams. “There was a time when there was a break from a basketball game and I went out and played a short pick-up game with some boys. But when the game started up again and we cleared the floor, I went back to cheerleading,” Hull said. Her fortunes would change only slightly when she went to college.

Hull studied physical education at Purdue University, and in her four years of undergraduate study, she also participated on the women’s field hockey and basketball teams. She played softball for one season as well. The only issue with these teams was that they were classified as “extramural” activities instead of sanctioned, recognized interscholastic teams that could earn varsity letters. “We didn’t even have our own trainers,” Hull said. “We would have to tape our own ankles before games. I broke my finger in a field hockey game against Indiana State and taped it myself to the finger next to it and finished the game.” On top of the lack of trainers, the women’s basketball team did not have warm-ups to go with their uniforms in 1971. To solve this problem, the team painted a house and gave blood to buy new warm-up suits.

It wasn’t all bad for Hull, though. “I thought I died and went to heaven at Purdue because I could finally play. I lived in the gym,” Hull said. She vividly remembers her time playing basketball in Mackey Arena. “It was cool, the ball pings when it hits the floor,” Hull said.

In 1974, during her senior year, Hull went to the university president and the athletic director to discuss transitioning women’s athletics into varsity sports. In 1975 Purdue made the change and women’s athletics were finally recognized as NCAA varsity intercollegiate sports. “The time was just ripe for women’s sports to be recognized, and it was cool to be a part of that,” Hull said.

The reason Hull could only play softball for one season was because of her involvement with Developmental Movement Education. DME brought in children from the community at a time when perceptional motor skills were being piloted. Such concepts as spatial awareness, body orientation, interception (catching), and projection (throwing or striking) were cutting edge. “It was a very rich learning environment for me,” Hull said.

After she left Purdue, Hull taught and coached for four years at a middle school in Lowell, Ind., but she returned to Anderson when she married. When AU hired her in 1979, she taught physical education while also coaching basketball and volleyball. She had her first of four children in 1981, which taught her the importance of being able to balance personal and professional life. Hull coached her last basketball game in 1985 and her last volleyball game in 1992 so she could spend more time with her family.

Hull still teaches physical education, a field she is passionate about. “I’m committed to teaching and love P.E. and want to pass along that love and advocacy of physical education,” said Hull. “Physical education makes kids more fit, skilled or better at sports, and it starts when they’re young.”

Hull promotes physical education programs across the state, and she enjoys the opportunity to get to know students on a personal level for four years. She loves the concept of training students to be leaders. She loves passing on the excitement of physical education. She loves AU and what AU stands for. “People come here and stay,” Hull said.

— Kyle Beckman is a senior from Auburn, Ind., majoring in communication arts and business/information systems and minoring in political science. Beckman is an associate with Fifth Street Communications™, writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

“We are pleased to make this strategic appointment at this time in the life of the university,” said Dr. James L. Edwards, president of Anderson University. “This title is appropriate to her comprehensive role and her leadership. Dr. Morris is highly regarded on campus and in the wider academic community.”

In her role as provost, Morris will provide leadership and vision for internal functions of the university developing collaborative relationships between university programs, departments, and divisions. Along with the president, the provost assists in representing the university to various constituent groups: church, community, and education. The provost serves in place of the president in the president’s absence.

In March of 2009, Morris was named vice president for academic affairs and dean at Anderson University. She is only the sixth person to serve in the role. She previously served as vice president and undergraduate academic dean at Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, Va.

While at Eastern Mennonite University (EMU), Morris served as a faculty member in the Nursing Department, chair of the Nursing Department, Honors Program director, self-study director for EMU’s reaccreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools, associate academic dean, and vice president and undergraduate academic dean.

Morris earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Eastern Mennonite University, a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Virginia, and a Ph.D. in nursing administration from George Mason University. Her dissertation was entitled, Voices of Women: A Qualitative Study of Effective Female Nurse Faculty.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

The health and wellness guru now spends his days trying to motivate cancer patients and survivors who inspire him regularly to appreciate all that life has to offer.

Douglass loves to be there for his clients. And he hopes his clients love to learn how to be themselves despite their diagnosis.

“I try to get them to see the value of exercise no matter where they are in the treatment process or how long they may be in remission,” Douglass said. “Exercise can do so many things for patients, especially in terms of side effects. It can help you fell better regardless of where you are in terms of health.”

[Photo: Matthew Douglass works with an exercising patient at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie. Credit: Jordan Kartholl/The Star Press]

His clients, most of whom are breast cancer patients and survivors at the Cancer Center at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital, meet with Douglass because they want to feel better. But in truth these patients want more than that.

They want to live for years to come. And Douglass knows his role is about more than creating a fitness plan.

He’s not there to tell people what to do or to get in their faces if they don’t meet his goals for them.

Douglass is a cancer exercise specialist to show his patients what they might have forgotten during the course of their chemotherapy or radiation treatments, their meetings with oncologists and financial advisors.

He shows them that they’re stronger than they realize.

“I’m a pretty personable guy, so when my clients come in I mostly ask them how they’re doing, what’s going on with them and their families,” he said. “I enjoy that about this job. But mostly I love to see the progress each person makes. Even if it’s the fact that they can stay on the treadmill two minutes longer. It doesn’t matter; it’s progress.”

The Kirkland, Ind., native’s journey to the Cancer Center began when he was at Anderson University and realized he wanted to work in the field of health and wellness.

After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in exercise science, Douglass moved on to the master’s program in exercise science at Ball State University’s Human Performance Lab.

While at BSU, he began working with older clients who wanted to improve or to create health and wellness plans to improve their lifestyles. It was then that he came across the cancer survivors who wanted to integrate exercise into their lives.

Not that cancer was new to Douglass. As is the case with many people, he had cancer patients and survivors — including breast cancer survivors — in his own family.

The relatives didn’t have to fight their battles alone, and he brings that message to his clients as well: They do not have to go through this alone.

So he sits next to them on the popular NUStep machine that works the lower and upper body at a variety of paces. He walks along with them on the treadmill. Douglass does whatever he asks his clients to do, smiling and encouraging them along the way.

His exercise suggestions include yoga and pilates for stress management and increased flexibility, using hand weights and resistance bands to improve muscle strength, remembering to take deep breaths to bring more oxygen to the cells and enjoying what’s going on in front of you.

Oh, and smiling.

Douglass has worked with breast and other cancer patients from ages 25 to 95 and he continues to find the work challenging and enjoyable.

But from the 20 patients he works with currently, and every breast cancer survivor and fighter he’s assisted during the past three years, he’s learned the important lesson of never giving up, regardless of what’s ahead of you.

“I am very encouraged when I work with my clients,” Douglass said. “I’ve learned a lot from them about life and about how important it is to appreciate life and to live every moment. They encourage me as much as I encourage them. Probably more.”

— Ivy Farguheson is a reporter for The Star Press. Story reposted with additions to include Anderson University graduation year.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2011, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the eighth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

“While we are grateful to be included among the best of Midwest universities, we want most of all to be measured by our quality and our student success,” said Anderson University President Dr. James L. Edwards. “Our mission to transform lives through education will be met by nothing less.”

The 2012 Best Colleges guidebook provides the most thorough examination of how more than 1,400 accredited four-year schools compare on a set of up to 16 widely accepted indicators of excellence. Among the many factors weighed in determining the rankings, the key measures of quality are: peer assessment, graduation and retention rates, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources, alumni giving, and, for National Universities and National Liberal Art Colleges, “graduation rate performance” and high school counselor ratings of colleges.

For more information on the rankings, visit www.usnews.com/colleges/.

Over the past two decades, the U.S. News & World Report college rankings, which group schools based on categories created by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, has grown to be the most comprehensive research tool for students and parents considering higher education opportunities.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2011, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the eighth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

“Anderson University is a distinct place often described in the past by our alumni and others as ‘very special.’ We want to bring greater distinction and clarity to that idea that will gain wide affirmation from those who are a part of the AU family and those who will come to know us,” said Anderson University President Dr. James L. Edwards.

The process began more than two years ago. The new logo and font were designed and developed by Kerry Shaw, director of Publications at Anderson University. The logo features the university’s name with an overarching base and orange flame. Students and alumni will associate this graphic with the Eternal Flame landmark located in front of Decker Hall. Edwards added that the goal of this long and very widely involved process is “clarity and distinction.”

Dr. Marie Morris, vice president of academic affairs, said, “I don’t really view this as a ‘brand direction’ but rather clarifying the AU story – its rich heritage and its bright future. I’m thrilled to be at AU at this time for this very important clarifying moment. Our world is changing and how we educate and prepare students must also keep pace with the times. It’s a new day for us at AU.”

Established in 1992 to mark the university’s 75th anniversary, the Eternal Flame echoes the university’s mission to educate and prepare individuals for lives of faith and service in their families, churches, and society. The new logo is a visual stepping stone to help define the bigger story among the countless experiences yet to be told about AU.

“Many on campus know that we provide students with something spectacular at Anderson University,” said Chris Williams, director of university communications. “We need to learn to share the story of Anderson University with others. The new logo is just one of the many ways we will be sharing this story with a variety of audiences in the future.”

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Forbes.com included only the top 20 percent of all undergraduate institutions in the 2011 rankings. The rankings were prepared by the Center for College Affordability and Productivity (CCAP).

“We have one more indication just how special Anderson University is, based on achievement of our students and graduates,” said Anderson University President Dr. James. L. Edwards. “The story of quality is another vote of confidence for a truly remarkable faculty. We are grateful for this recognition.”

Forbes executive editor Michael Noer explained the ranking process in an article on Forbes.com.

“Our annual ranking of the 650 best undergraduate institutions focuses on the things that matter the most to students: quality of teaching, great career prospects, graduation rates, and low levels of debt. … We try and evaluate the college purchase as a consumer would,” said Noer.

The rankings are based on five general categories: post graduate success (30%), student satisfaction (27.5%), debt (17.5%), four-year graduation rate (17.5%), and competitive awards (7.5). A complete ranking methodology may be viewed at http://blogs.forbes.com/michaelnoer/2011/08/03/americas-top-colleges/.

Data collected by Forbes is corroborated by data from the Student Satisfaction Inventory and the National Survey of Student Engagement. Data from the SSI, for example, shows that students rank Anderson University above the mean on a large battery of questions ranging from classroom instruction to campus safety.

Anderson University has been recognized for its quality programs in recent years. AU has been recognized by US News & World Report as one of America’s best colleges and universities for seven consecutive years. The Princeton Review also has recognized Anderson University as one of the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for 2011.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2011, US News & World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the eighth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

Dr. Beverley Pitts, president of the University of Indianapolis and a 1968 graduate of Anderson University, received an honorary Doctor of Letters during the chapel. Honorary degrees will also be awarded to AU alumni Steven Curtis Chapman and Charles Myricks, Jr., during the May 7 commencement ceremony at Anderson University.

[Photo: Dr. Beverley Pitts and AU President Dr. James L. Edwards.]

During her address, Pitts reflected on her experience at Anderson University and on those who made her education possible. She encouraged students to consider with gratitude those who made their own journeys possible.

“We are all part of a shared culture at AU,” Pitts said. “Faculty, administrators, and graduates long before us built an institution based on the Christian values of personal responsibility and concern for others, high quality learning, and a commitment to service. You don’t even know who they are, but much of what you are now experiencing, the privilege of an excellent education in a faith-based institution, is based on their humble beginnings. … Stand high on the shoulders of those who brought you to this point. Be grateful for the privilege that they have given you. I hope you will take great advantage of this privilege and do good with what you know.”

Students recognized during chapel:

Renee Bader, a psychology major, is a member and officer in Phi Eta Sigma, Alpha Chi, and Psi Chi. She is also a Center for Public Service Fellow. Bader anticipates getting married and starting graduate school this summer. She plans to attend the University of Cincinnati to earn a master’s degree in school counseling.

Elizabeth Barrow, a biology major and chemistry minor, served as president of Sigma Zeta, president of Alpha Chi, president of the Pre-Professional Health Society, and was co-founder of Operation Foundation: Project Anderson. She served as a TA in a number of science classes and as a tutor in Organic Chemistry. She is also a Center for Public Service Fellow and an officer in Phi Eta Sigma. Barrow is active in a number of campus groups and participated in Tri-S trips to Australia, London, and Honduras. She plans to attend IU Medical School to obtain her M.D.

[Photo, from left: Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean Dr. Marie Morris, Ambrosia Davidson, Joanna Tilley, Keith Sayer, Samantha Toeller, Beth Barrow, Renee Bader, and AU President Dr. James L. Edwards.]

Ambrosia Davidson, a marketing major and Spanish minor, is a member of the AU Honors Program, Delta Mu Delta, Alpha Mu Gamma, Alpha Chi, Phi Eta Sigma, and the Center for Public Service. During her time at AU, she participated in Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE), worked with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, and served an internship at Minnetrista Cultural Center in Muncie. After graduation, Davidson plans to finalize details for her wedding and pursue employment in marketing communications or public relations.

Keith Sayer, a Bible/religion and English double-major, is a member of Alpha Chi, Sigma Tau Delta, and the AU Honors Program. He plans to attend either Vanderbilt Divinity School or Duke Divinity School this fall to pursue graduate studies in religion. Sayer hopes to teach religion at the undergraduate level and participate in teaching ministries of the church through research, writing, and possibly serving as a teaching minister.

Joanna Tilley, a pre-med biology major with minors in chemistry and Christian ministries, is a member of Alpha Chi, Sigma Zeta, Pre-Professional Health Society, Alacritas, and the Center for Public Service. She plans to pursue medical school this fall at Edward Via Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine in Blacksburg, Va.

Samantha Toeller, an elementary education/special education major and applied music minor, has served in Kappa Delta Pi and Alpha Chi. She is completing her full-year student teaching experience, with classroom experience in 2nd and 6th grades as well as in intermediate special education resource. Toeller hopes to receive a teaching position at a school in Indianapolis or Chicago, and to teach within a multicultural setting in the intermediate grades.

Gabe Miller, an exercise science major, is this year’s Outstanding Senior Male Athlete. As a four-year starter for the men’s basketball team, he received 1st Team All-HCAC honors following both his junior and senior seasons. Miller led the Ravens in assist over the past four seasons and led in steals the past two years. He played a key role on the 2009-10 team that won the HCAC season championship and made it to the second round of the NCAA Division III tournament. He was the team captain during his junior and senior years.

[Photo, from left: Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean Dr. Marie Morris, Athletic Director Marcie Taylor, Gabe Miller, Ellen Thompson, and AU President Dr. James L. Edwards.]

Ellen Thompson, a biology major, is this year’s Outstanding Senior Female Athlete. She was a member of the women’s basketball team the past four seasons, a member of the women’s golf team during her freshman and sophomore years, and a member of the softball team the past two seasons. In basketball, Thompson earned HCAC All-Conference and team MVP honors during the 2010-11 season. She is the ninth leading scorer in school history with 965 points, second in free throws made (281) and free throws attempted (381), and fourth in free throw percentage at 73.8 percent. She was team captain during her senior season.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

To be a member of Alpha Chi, students have to be of junior or senior status and in the top ten percent of their class maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.70.

Melissa Carlson was awarded one of ten $2,500 Graduate Fellowships given by the national Alpha Chi organization and Gina Farmer won the regional $1,000 Graduate Fellowship. Jacqueline Burgher was first runner-up for the $200 regional scholarship and Matt Barton won the $200 presentation prize for having the best paper in Exercise Science. Listed below are the names of the eight students and the titles of their presentations.

• Senior exercise science major, Matt Barton
  “Do College Students Accurately Perceive Moderate and Vigorous Exercise Intensities Based Upon the ACSM Guidelines”

• Senior chemistry and mathematics/economics double major, Jacqueline Burgher
  “Interactions of Interfaces: Absorption of Polyacrylic Acid, Cetyl Trimethylammonium Bromide (CTAB), and Nanoparticles on an Oil”

• Senior chemistry major, Melissa Carlson
  “Reverse Phase HPLC Determination of L-DOPA in Mucuna Pruriens Nutritional Supplements”

• Senior history major, Gina Farmer
  “Theodore Roosevelt Imperialism: ‘Big Stick’ Policy in Latin America”

• Senior finance major, Rose Hirschy
  “Father of Conservation”

• Senior bible and religion major, Melissa Reginelli
  “Messages of Hope in Ezekiel”

• Junior finance and mathematics/economics double major, Eva Tan
  “The Tiananmen Square Protests of 1989″

• Senior biology major, Joanna Tilley
  “Antibacterial Properties of Golden Seal”

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

The fitness classes offer the AU community a place to build personal wellness in a group setting. Classes are offered every semester and are taught by both students and staff. These classes, most of which take place twice a week, give members of the AU community another option for working out if lifting weights or running is not their preference. [Photos: Anderson University students and faculty participate in a Zumba class. Credit: Stefanie Vinsel]

“The fitness classes help maintain the wellness center’s goal that we should not be worrying about looking good, but about being healthy,” said Connie Hippensteel, wellness program director. “The classes also promote a community among the participants.”

Hippensteel is responsible for hiring the students and staff who teach the classes. This semester there are three student-run classes including: boot camp combined with slide aerobics, taught by junior Kaitlyn Gingerich; 15-minute abs and Pilates, taught by junior Lyndsay South; and P90x led by senior Tyler Smith. P90x is an intense fitness program that improves physical fitness in 90 days.

All three students are studying exercise science at AU. Along with these students is Zumba instructor Julie Ward, who works on campus as an office manager and project coordinator in Publications. Zumba is a dance fitness program.

Gingerich said she has a passion for fitness, which motivates her to teach the class to the best of her ability. “I am glad to be teaching this class because I want to educate people about fitness, to benefit myself and others,” she said.

The fitness classes can benefit and accommodate participants according to their individual fitness levels. “All the fitness classes can be adjusted to fit the needs of the individual,” said Gingerich. “No matter how in shape or out of shape someone is, the fitness classes work for everyone.”

Many faculty and staff members at AU participate in these classes. Deborah Miller Fox, assistant professor of English, attends Zumba twice a week. “I am not someone who loves to work out, but I enjoy Zumba because it is fun, taught in a positive environment, and builds a sense of camaraderie,” she said. Fox loves seeing the students in a different setting, and because of this she is able to establish deeper relationships with them.

Zumba is the most popular class among the students and staff. Meredith Tarplee, a junior psychology and sociology major, participates in the class and says she enjoys every minute of it. “I do like to work out, and being that I am a dancer, Zumba makes dancing into a workout, and that is perfect for me,” said Tarplee. “It builds community as well. There are seniors and freshman in the class, along with faculty and staff. We are all there for the same reason.”

— Matt Dougherty is a junior from Breese, Ill., majoring in communication arts and marketing. Dougherty is an associate with Fifth Street Communications™, writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Chapman will address the graduating class of 2011 during the 3 p.m. (EDT) program and will receive an honorary doctorate along with the Rev. Charles Myricks, chief operating development officer for the National Association of the Church of God, and Dr. Beverley Pitts, president of the University of Indianapolis. Anderson University’s commencement will be conducted in the Ward Fieldhouse of the Kardatzke Wellness Center. Myricks will speak earlier in the day during Anderson University’s baccalaureate service at 10 a.m in Reardon Auditorium. All events are free and open to the public. AU will offer a live webcast during Commencement starting at 2:45 p.m. EDT.

Other events scheduled during Anderson University’s commencement day on May 7 include the Falls School of Business hooding ceremony at 11:30 a.m. in Byrum Hall for candidates of both Master of Business Administration and Doctor of Business Administration degrees.

The hooding ceremony for the Master of Education and the Master of Music Education will be conducted at noon in Schield Dining Room, Olt Student Center. The certification ceremony for the Teach for Indiana Program (TIP) will be conducted at 10 a.m. in Decker Hall, Room 133.

Events earlier in the week include the School of Theology Senior Recognition and Awards Chapel on Tuesday, April 26, at 11 a.m. in Miller Chapel. The hooding ceremony for the Doctor of Ministry graduates will take place on Friday, May 6, at 6 p.m. in Miller Chapel. In addition, a special pinning ceremony for the Anderson University School of Nursing will be conducted on Friday, May 6, at 6 p.m. in Byrum Hall.

Individuals receiving honorary degrees during the May 7 commencement ceremony at Anderson University include the following:

STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN — DOCTOR OF MUSIC

Steven Curtis Chapman is a Christian singer, songwriter, record producer, actor, and author. He attended Anderson University in the early 1980s while starting his career as a songwriter. Chapman has developed into one of the most prolific singers in the genre, releasing more than 20 albums to date. Chapman has also won five Grammy awards and 56 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards, more than any other artist in history. His seven “Artist of the Year” Dove Awards — his latest in 2009 — are also an industry record. In addition to his music career, Chapman, along with his wife Mary Beth (also an AU alum), established a nonprofit foundation called Show Hope (formerly called Shaohannah’s Hope) to mobilize individuals and communities to care for orphans through its international orphan care work as well as adoption aid grants. Chapman plans a summer 2011 album release for his new project titled re:creation.

CHARLES MYRICKS — DOCTOR OF DIVINITY

Charles Myricks, Jr., is a gifted musician and playwright with a deep love of music. He graduated from Anderson University in 1982 and went on to receive his Master of Arts degree from Ashland Theological Seminary. He has served as vice president and general manager of Word Gospel Records. Under his leadership, Word Gospel artists received 3 Grammy Awards, 8 Dove Awards, and 12 Stellar Awards. He has served as a trustee at Anderson University and in ministry with the Arlington Church of God in Akron, Ohio. He currently works as chief operating development officer for the National Association of the Church of God.

DR. BEVERLEY PITTS — DOCTOR OF LETTERS

Dr. Beverley Pitts serves as president of the University of Indianapolis. In that capacity, she oversees an institution with 4,500 students, including a branch campus in Athens, Greece, and doctoral programs in occupational therapy, physical therapy, and clinical psychology. She earned a BA from Anderson University in 1968 and an MA in journalism and doctorate in higher education from Ball State University. Prior to becoming provost at Ball State University, she held positions of associate provost, assistant provost, director of academic assessment, and director of general studies at Ball State. She was also founding chair of the Department of Communication at Anderson University.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

Brandon first became involved with Anderson athletics in 1959 as a student athlete. In 1968 he began teaching and coaching at the university. Over the years he has served as an assistant coach for football, basketball, and baseball; as the athletic director; as the head coach for football; and as a club coach for various men’s sports. But he is most recognized as the head baseball coach. In fact, for many it is hard to imagine Raven baseball without him.

Brandon played for former Brooklyn Dodger Carl Erskine as a student and was an assistant coach under him before becoming the head coach in 1972. As head coach, Brandon built the baseball program into a powerhouse. He won 1100 victories, 14 conference championships, 12 National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) titles, one National Christian College Athletics Association (NCCAA) national championship, and made five World Series appearances. He was named NAIA District 21 Coach of the Year nine times, Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference coach of the year five times, and NCAA Division III Mideast Region Coach of the Year three times. He is in the NAIA Hall of Fame and the Indiana High School Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame.

Brandon has viewed coaching as his ministry, and while his success brought attention from other schools wishing to hire him, AU was where he wanted to be. “I believe in this place,” says Brandon. “I love the people in this place. I love the mission of this place and never really considered leaving.”

Known affectionately as “Bama” because of his Alabama roots, Brandon was recently honored with having the baseball field named after him. In his retirement he hopes to help with the upkeep of Don Brandon Field under the direction of the new head coach, David Pressley. “That’s one of my passions,” says Brandon. “I think a beautifully manicured, groomed baseball field is just as pretty as Niagara Falls and the Grand Canyon all rolled into one.” He and his wife, Janet, also plan to spend more time at their log cabin in Louisiana and visiting with their grandchildren.

Walker also leaves having enjoyed her time at AU. “I have really appreciated the opportunity of working here,” says Walker. “[AU] was a wonderful fit for me. I feel like it has made me a much better person and a much better Christian. It was as much a growth experience for me as it was for my students.”

Teaching early childhood and elementary education classes gave Walker the chance to have a lot of fun in the classroom. “I had a very animated classroom and had the kids get very involved. I really enjoyed trying to motivate them at 8 in the morning,” she says with a laugh. “I’d make them get up and sing and dance. We’d sing children’s songs — songs that they could use in the classroom. Then they’d wake up, and I could lecture. They were very cooperative with me. They would look at me a little weird, but they would do it!”

Walker says she enjoyed the small, Christian environment of Anderson University and the opportunities that it offered. “The environment made it possible to build relationships and model your faith,” she says. Her class work often reached beyond the campus. “I was able to go out and work in the community. I worked with Head Start teachers, I worked with Park Place Children’s Center, and I worked with a lot of teachers in the public schools.”

During her retirement, Walker plans to continue working with both Park Place Children’s Center and Head Start. She also plans to spend more time relaxing at her lake house in Canada.

— Heather Lowhorn is a freelance writer for Signatures magazine.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

“We are honored to continue to be ranked as a top tier institution by U.S. News and World Report,” said Dr. Michael Collette, vice president for Marketing and Strategic Planning.  “It is even more fulfilling to know this ranking is based greatly on the strength of AU’s academic reputation, respect for our quality faculty and wide recognition the many programs of academic distinction.”

The 2011 Best Colleges package provides the most thorough examination of how more than 1,400 accredited four-year schools compare on a set of up to 16 widely accepted indicators of excellence. Among the many factors weighed in determining the rankings, the key measures of quality are: peer assessment, graduation and retention rates, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources, alumni giving, and, for National Universities and National Liberal Art Colleges, “graduation rate performance” and high school counselor ratings of colleges. U.S. News has made some significant changes to the 2011 Best Colleges’ ranking methodology and presentation. For more details on these changes, go to www.usnews.com/collegemeth.

Over the past two decades, the U.S. News college rankings, which group schools based on categories created by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, has grown to be the most comprehensive research tool for students and parents considering higher education opportunities.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2010, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the seventh consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

A graduate of Huntington University, Miller has been running marathons ever since he was 20 years old. “My first marathon was with a group of my friends from the cross country team,” said Miller. “We decided to run one together and I’ve been running ever since….for the last 13 years.” Miller said he doesn’t run the marathons just for fun and not competition either. “It’s more of a competition within myself,” he said. “I don’t run to win but to beat my old times. I’ve only won one race, and there were only 30 runners.” [Photo on left: Dr. Fred Miller crosses the finish line at the 2009 Walt Disney World Marathon.]

Miller usually runs one or two marathons a year, although once he ran three in one month just to see if he could improve his time on each run. There is no real determining factor in how many he chooses to run, but he said it has become a spur of the moment decision. “I know my body and I know my limits. I know the sport, and I know what is safe,” said Miller.

Training for a marathon constitutes a very rigorous schedule of running varying distances until eventually the runner works his or her way up to the entire 26 miles. First time runners and those who don’t run very often have a long training period of at least six months prior to the race. Miller doesn’t need that long. “I run consistently about 40 miles a week throughout the year,” he said. “Because I’ve been running for so many years, I don’t need to train as long as someone who is just starting out.”

Around mile 20 of a marathon many runners hit a “wall.” The body is fatigued and is no longer running on carbohydrates but stored up fat. However, a runner can bypass this point by training properly and staying hydrated throughout the race. The best part of running a marathon or running long distances in general is achieving that “runner’s high;” the part in the run where one feels a sense of euphoria. “You find your niche…a pace that’s normal,” said Miller. “It’s the feeling of effortlessness that we runners live for.”

And what advice does Miller have to give those wishing to start running or training for a marathon? “Find a group to run with. You won’t be as bored running with others. Stay motivated and make sure you get in the weekly runs and you’ll be ready for a marathon in no time.”

— Missi Martin is a junior from Goshen, Ind., majoring in communication arts. Martin is an associate with Fifth Street Communications, writing on behalf of Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2009, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the sixth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

This July, Hull will travel with Anderson University faculty and friends Connie Hippensteel and Cindy Peck and three other women for their ninth hike on the Appalachian Trail. Their conquest will take them lodge-to-lodge across parts of New Hampshire and Vermont. It will be the ladies’ first time hiking this portion of the Appalachian Trail, which will present new challenges, such as higher altitudes.

Peck’s first hike of the Appalachian Trail with the group was in the summer of 2002, when she and Hull travelled with two others, who all had the same adventurous aspirations. When asked why they decided not to camp out this year, Peck explained, “The uncertain weather and hard terrain, plus the fact that we are all getting older, made us decide to do lodge-to-lodge instead.” Their decision to travel lodge-to-lodge will lighten their loads by about 10 pounds that usually would include a tent, cookware, food and more.

Hippensteel started hiking with the group in the summer of 2003. “I love being in nature, away from technology, just hearing the sounds of the birds and the wind in the trees,” she explained. While she thoroughly enjoys those aspects of hiking, it isn’t without risk.

“Sometimes we have had weather challenges. Last year a tornado touched down very close to where we were camped,” said Hippensteel. But that isn’t enough to keep her from heading out. “I like the challenge of doing something physically demanding. It’s a motivation to keep physically fit.”

Hull says she looks forward to each trip and some of the traditions they have created. They begin the day with morning devotions and each night someone will share a special snack–something not taken for granted after all the “trail food” during the day. She explained one of the most significant aspects of the trip is the feeling of being “renewed by the spirit of Godly women.”

Everyone looks out for the others and they each have a specific role. Once on the trail, they have an unspoken rule that they will hike for about an hour and then take a little time for the group to catch up, which allows each person to hike at their own comfortable pace. They’ve had times in the past where they relied on each other to get past the most challenging points; they’ve even had to help lift each other before. Hull reminisced, “That’s the beauty of it; you can’t do it alone.”

Over the course of the July trip, the ladies expect to hike about 50 miles of the Appalachian Trail –and that doesn’t include hiking the extra miles to and from landmarks. The entire trail is 2,178 miles and runs from Georgia through Maine and would take four months to hike.

– Aubrey Helms is a 2010 Anderson University graduate. Helms majored in communication arts and was an associate with Fifth Street Communications, writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2009, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the sixth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Jones, a 2007 AU graduate, played baseball all through college. During his junior and senior years, he interned for the Indianapolis Indians, a Triple A team. After graduation, Jones continued to follow his passion for sports by looking for jobs in the athletic field. During his search he came across a job with DePauw University. While at DePauw, Jones had the opportunity to be an assistant athletic trainer over many different sports including men’s and women’s tennis and swimming, women’s volleyball and basketball and also baseball. Jones knew he could do more with his degree, so after a year at the university he began looking for other ways to further his career.

After speaking with Steve Risinger, head athletic trainer at AU, Jones found an opportunity for a job with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, located in Tempe, Ariz. He interviewed for the job in spring of 2008 and was hired for a part-time position. Jones was later added as a full-time athletic trainer. His job requires him to help with training to prevent injuries and assist physical therapy athletes after surgery. As a requirement of the job, he must also send daily updates of the athletes’ conditions to the general manager and the major league athletic trainer.

Jones has learned a lot since being out in the real world for a few years. One of the most important things he’s learned has been how to work as a team, even when you aren’t an athlete anymore. “It’s important to allow people to help you…lean on others instead of always trying to do everything on your own,” said Jones. He’s also learned that a little positive energy can go a long way. “People will feed off of your positive thinking, even when they may be in a bad mood…it helps you stand out as an individual.”

Jones was invited back this fall to his alma mater to continue helping others. During the transition from fall sports to winter sports, there is a need for extra athletic trainers. Jones was asked to assist and potentially give some advice to students looking forward to a future in this profession. He was on campus for two months during the fall season and two months during the spring season. After spring season, Jones knew he needed to find another job. He found just what he was looking for working as an athletic trainer for the San Diego Padres. Jones is the athletic trainer for their rookie team, which plays in the Arizona League. After signing a 12-month, full-time contract, he looks forward to working with the Padres for a long time.

“I love working in professional baseball and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. I look forward to working with players to keep them healthy and helping to contribute to the success of the Padres organization,” said Jones. “Being an athletic training student and playing baseball at AU definitely helped me get to where I am today.”

- Missi Martin is a junior from Elkhart, Ind., majoring in communication arts. Martin is an associate with Fifth Street Communications, writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2009, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the sixth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Killian joined other ACS special education students Thursday for the 10th annual P.G. Gray Festival, an event designed to bring awareness of the arts to the students, who often don’t get to participate in the field trips their classmates do. Led by teaching artists from VSA Arts, the students spent the day learning about art, music, drama, dancing and movement.

“I like painting and art,” Killian said. “And we wrapped blankets like a taco.” [Photo on left: Carl Erskine teaches Eastside Elementary students harmonica during the PG Gray Festival at the Anderson University Kardatzke Wellness Center Thursday. Students learn about the arts during the annual event.]

Student Tynaisha Fuller explained her favorite parts of the day, which included roaring like a lion and pretending to pour water over her head in a drama lesson, as she put together a neon peace sign with flowers.

Some students participated in a tambourine parade, made crafts and played with a giant parachute, while baseball legend Carl Erskine taught others how to play “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” on the harmonica.

“This is your new friend,” Erskine told students about the harmonicas they each received. “You can play so many neat little tunes.”

ACS teacher Diana Nall said the arts awareness day provided students the opportunity to discover something different and unique.

“They like to come here because they get to do extra special arts,” Nall said. “They get to do some of the similar activities at school, but here it’s with different people and a different environment.”

The event was named after P.G. Gray, the son of Anderson University professor and Madison County Special Olympics Director Paul Gray. P.G. Gray had suffered from encephalitis as a result of a high fever, Paul Gray said.

“P.G. loved to come to the university,” Gray said. “He has inspired a lot of our students to pursue professions in working with disabilities. He made a difference in a lot of people’s lives.”

VSA Arts manager Pam Nicholas said about 380 ACS students spent time learning about the arts at Thursday’s event.

“This gives the children with disabilities an opportunity to work with professional artists,” she said. “It’s such a joyful occasion. They look forward to it.”

The arts teachers benefit from working with special education students, as well, Nicholas said.

“It’s really wonderful to see and learn,” she said. “We’re the ones that are really blessed. They teach us how to treat people with consideration.”

—Aleasha Sandley is a reporter for The Herald Bulletin. Story republished with permission. Photo credit: Don Knight.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2009, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the sixth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

CLICK HERE FOR A CAMPUS MAP AND DIRECTIONS TO AU.

During commencement, Anderson University will award two honorary degrees. Anderson University will award Dr. William G. Enright (the 2010 Anderson University commencement speaker) with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree and Dr. Mark W. Fulton (an Anderson-area dentist and the co-founder and President of Mission Haiti, Inc.) with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree.

Other events scheduled on Anderson University’s May 8 commencement day include the Falls School of Business hooding ceremony at 11:30 a.m. in Byrum Hall for candidates of both Master of Business Administration and Doctor of Business Administration degrees.

The hooding ceremony for the Master of Education and the Master of Music Education will be conducted at 12 noon on May 8 in Shield dining room, Olt Student Center. The certification ceremony for the Teach in Indiana Program (TIP) will be conducted in Decker Hall, room 133, at 12 noon.

Events earlier in the week associated with commencement weekend include the School of Theology Senior Recognition and Awards Chapel on Tuesday, April 20, at 11 a.m. E.D.T. in Miller Chapel. In addition, a special pinning ceremony for the Anderson University School of Nursing will be conducted on Friday, May 7, at 6 p.m. in Reardon Auditorium.

William G. Enright, Ph.D., is Executive Director of the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving at the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University and former Senior Pastor of the Second Presbyterian Church, Indianapolis.

He is a graduate of Wheaton College, Wheaton, Illinois, Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, California and McCormick Theological Seminary, Chicago, Illinois. His Ph.D. is from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland. He also holds two D.D. (honorary) degrees from Hanover College, Hanover, Indiana and Dubuque Theological Seminary, Dubuque, Iowa.

Dr. Enright is currently a director of the Lilly Endowment, Inc, The Wishard Hospital Foundation Board and a trustee of Hanover College. His most recent appointment was as “Advisor for the National Cathedral Association” of the National Cathedral in Washington D.C. His civic involvement in Indianapolis has included serving as a member of Envisioning Indianapolis, the Police Advisory Board, the Board of Directors of the Central Indiana Council on Aging, and the St. Vincent Hospital Advisory Board. In addition, he served as co-chair of The Mayor’s Taskforce on Racism. He is co-founder of the Celebration of Hope, a program for racial reconciliation, which was recognized by President Clinton as one of ten national programs to be honored at the White House. He has also been honored by two governors with a Sagamore of the Wabash.

He has authored several books, the latest being Channel Markers, and lectured at numerous colleges, universities and theological institutions as well as business associations such as The Young Presidents and World Presidents organizations. In July, 2005, he served as “preacher and chaplain” for the Chautauqua Institution in New York.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2009, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the sixth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

The first night, the group slept at the bottom of the mountain. “You just have to clear away the big rocks and try to sleep on the little ones,” Seelbach said. [Photo on left: Drs. Doug Seelbach and Fred Miller, professors in AU’s Department of Kinesiology, hiked Oregon’s Mt. Adams last August.]

The group ate dehydrated meals and drank water through a purifier. “We asked the guides if we could just drink the water straight from the ground and they said to do it at our own risk. The guides were doing it,” Seelbach said, “so we figured it was safe enough.”

“We had to do training with shoes that had ice picks on the bottom so we didn’t slide down the glacier,” Miller explained. He was amazed at how well they worked. Four men were tied onto one rope; the guide went first in line and then the three rookies followed. “We had ice picks also so if we started to fall we could turn on our stomachs and dig the pick into the ice to stop ourselves from falling,” Seelbach said.

Further on up the mountain, the group came across what they called Glacier Lake. Seelbach described the scene: “The water temperature was at about freezing. Some of the younger guys decided to get in for a minute, but you couldn’t live in there for 10 minutes. You would be numb and die. I put my foot in and it was just aching!”

Miller, who was in training for a marathon, didn’t think the climb was too hard. “The hardest part was the negative movement, where your body has to resist instead of apply pressure, on the way down, sometimes you just thought you would fall,” he explained. [Photo on right: Dr. Doug Seelbach poses with his pick ax while hiking Mt. Adams. The pick axes were used to help keep the hikers from sliding down the glacier.]

Seelbach, on the other hand, talked about how climbing the mountain was all about putting one foot in front of the other. He compared it to a life lesson he was reminded of while hiking, “In life when things are hard, you have to just keep going and before long you will turn around and see how far you’ve come,” said Seelbach.

Another one of the lessons Seelbach was reminded of on the trip was about the appeal of things before you get up close. “Looking at that mountain from the air and from down below it just looks so beautiful, pristine and exotic. Once you get there you think, ‘Wow, this is not what I signed up for.’ It’s dirtier and a lot harder. It’s not really as it seemed,” Seelbach said.

One of Seelbach’s favorite parts was the view. Being high on the mountain, he said they could see so many more stars than at home. Both men took this time to get closer to God, spending time with Him and with their fellow hikers. “We really got to know each other better, and it made me realize I need to do that more in my daily life,” Miller explained.

The trip down the mountain was much quicker even though it was harder to do. The one easy part was sitting and sliding down the ice and snow, but the problem was the rocks. “I hit one of those and thought I was going to die,” Seelbach said.

Although both men enjoyed the hike, they were glad when it was over. Most of the men in the group had developed blisters and were told to cover them with duct tape. However, they only had pink duct tape on hand. By the end of the hike, their feet were mostly pink.

Miller said he would do it again only if there were some sort of competition involved. Seelbach enjoyed being outdoors and was reminded of when he and his wife led outdoor adventures in Canada. [Photo on left: The trip down the glacier was easier than the trip up because, as Dr. Fred Miller demonstrates, the hikers could just slide down. They did, however, have to be careful of the big rocks they might hit.]

Seelbach, an Anderson graduate, is in his tenth year teaching at Anderson University, while Miller is in his second.

— Elizabeth Vincent is a junior from Greenfield, Ind., majoring in communication arts and minoring in political science. Vincent is an associate with Fifth Street Communications writing on behalf of Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2009, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the sixth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

Through national and regional conferences, the development and exchange of resources, and participation in online networking, NetVUE will help institutions deepen vocational exploration by their students. The goals of the network are to share knowledge, best practices, and reflection on experiences among campuses while facilitating the incorporation of additional independent colleges and universities into this enterprise.

In announcing the launch of NetVUE, CIC President Richard Ekman said, “Over the past several years, the Council of Independent Colleges has made a commitment to advancing vocational exploration as a guiding force in American independent higher education. The concept of vocation emerged as a significant factor from various sources and has been applied in different ways for different campus constituencies. CIC hopes that NetVUE will capitalize on what has been learned about the theological exploration of vocation and how it can be adapted and developed to strengthen colleges and universities, their leadership, and the education they provide for their students.”

Dr. Marie Morris, vice president for academic affairs and dean stated that “Anderson University has a long and rich history of changing students’ lives through its commitment to educate students for a life of faith and service, through its focus on academic and Christian discovery and opportunities for experiential learning. We thought it important to join with others who share a commitment to fostering discovery and exploration in vocation as we prepare students for this ever changing world. As a member of NetVUE we look forward to increased opportunities for collegial sharing and to the future impact we anticipate in furthering our school’s mission.”

NetVUE is generously supported by Lilly Endowment Inc., which has funded similar programs over the years. “We have discovered,” said Craig Dykstra, Lilly Endowment’s senior vice president for religion, “that structured programs that encourage and guide students in the theological exploration of vocation do indeed help them draw on the wisdom of their religious traditions as they make decisions about their futures and figure out how to lead lives that really matter. We have been approached by hundreds of colleges and universities seeking to enhance their educational programs by incorporating vocational reflection more intentionally into their curricular and co-curricular activities. We are delighted that CIC is committed to sustaining and extending this important conversation and helping colleges across the country to advance their educational missions in this way.”

For more information about NetVUE, visit www.cic.edu/NetVUE.

The Council of Independent Colleges is an association of more than 600 independent, liberal arts colleges and universities and higher education affiliates and organizations that work together to strengthen college and university leadership, sustain high-quality education, and enhance private higher education’s contributions to society. To fulfill this mission, CIC provides its members with skills, tools, and knowledge that address aspects of leadership, financial management and performance, academic quality, and institutional visibility. The Council is headquartered at One Dupont Circle in Washington, DC.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,800 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2008, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the fourth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

For more than 35 years, AU education students have been pairing up with homeschool students. Dr. Becky Hull, chair of the Department of Kinesiology, has overseen the physical education program for the last 30 years. “There are parents who are homeschooling that are more versed in the traditional things, like math and history, and not so much in P.E. and music,” says Hull. “I think it is good for the homeschool kids to socialize with their friends in a purposeful way.” The facilities and equipment at AU are good tools for the kids to use that they normally would not have access to, adds Hull.

Because of the success of the P.E. program, a homeschool music program was implemented. The music program is in its ninth year and teaches kids to appreciate music. In both programs education majors teach the homeschooled kids as part of a class. “It’s good for our students because they get actual experience with the kids,” says Joanie Brandon, associate professor of music and head of the homeschool music program. “We get to serve the community and the students get experience. We can talk about teaching music to an 8-year-old all day, but putting it into practical experience is vital.”

“Music is something especially you cannot do by yourself,” says Brandon. “Being in a group lets you do things you simply cannot do alone.”

The homeschool P.E. program serves kids from 4 years old to freshman in high school, while the music program serves preschool through 11-year-olds. The programs run 10 weeks in the fall and 10 weeks in the spring. This gives three weeks of preparation for the college students before the classes begin. The cost is free for the music program and $10 for the P.E. program for the entire year.

“You would never believe how much fun it is to play games and sing songs with young children,” says music education major Alyssa Balbaugh. “It’s easy to see how much each student enjoys this and what they gain from attending. Actual practice in the teaching field is the best way to prepare.”

— Aaron Vogel is a senior from Fairmount, Indiana, majoring in communication arts with a minor in marketing. Vogel is an associate with Fifth Street Communications writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,800 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2008, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the fourth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing, and theology.

How does an internship with a major athletic team sound? That’s just the kind of opportunity two seniors at Anderson University had this past summer. Laura Baden and Carlie Clark were the lucky women given the opportunity to pursue an internship that most college students only dream of. [Photo on left: Laura Baden practices wrapping a fellow trainer's foot in the Athletic Training room at Anderson University. Baden is an athletic trainer for the AU football team.]

Baden worked with the WNBA’s Detroit Shock. “Only my dream job…no big deal,” she said. Although Baden loved the opportunity to work with a professional women’s team, her list of duties far outweighed her expectations. “I did so much,” she said. “I would be there from 8 or 9 in the morning until about 2 a.m. on game days. Before practice I would do some taping or stretching and get everything ready to take to the practice facility. After games I was there all night doing laundry for both teams.”

Clark agreed that her internship with the Columbus Destroyers, an arena football team, entailed a lot of duties, but she still thought this was a wise choice for an internship. After all, she wants to eventually be the athletic trainer for a professional athletic team.

“I gave treatment, wound care, taped, and did some rehabilitation exercises with the athletes. I went to every practice and every game,” she said.

Although the ladies worked with different teams in different sports, both women said it was great experience. They did, however, differ in one area: the option to go back and look for a job with the teams after graduation. “It was a great internship, but was way more time than I expected,” Baden said. “Being an athletic trainer for a professional team is way too much pressure and way too much responsibility.”

Clark, however, came to a different conclusion. “I loved working with professional athletes and getting to do everything,” she said.

All in all, both women said that this summer was not only a great learning experience, but one of the best summers they have had. Both hope to pursue graduate school. Anticipating a May 2010 graduation, their dreams of athletic training careers are in the near future.

— Missi Martin is a junior from Elkhart, Ind., majoring in communication arts. Martin is an associate with Fifth Street Communications, writing on behalf of Anderson University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2008, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the fourth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

“We are pleased to be listed among the top schools in our category,” said Dr. James L. Edwards, president of Anderson University. “Universities that are achieving their mission especially in these very challenging times deserve this recognition and we are proud to be among them. When a student finds the right college of quality that is an excellent fit in terms of culture, programs and degrees, and overall mission, the future opens in such powerful ways, and for that student, the selected school is the best in the nation. We intend to be such a school for so many.”

The 2010 America’s Best Colleges package provides the most thorough examination of how more than 1,400 accredited four-year schools compare on a set of 15 widely accepted indicators of excellence. Among the many factors weighed in determining the rankings, the key measures of quality are: peer assessment, graduation and retention rates, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources, alumni giving, and graduation rate performance (National Universities and Liberal Art Colleges).

Over the past 26 years, the U.S. News college rankings, which groups schools based on categories created by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, has grown to be the most comprehensive research tool for students and parents considering higher education opportunities. The America’s Best Colleges ranking package, which includes extensive editorial content and multimedia resources, has helped families navigate the difficult decisions involved throughout the college process, from college admission and selection to financing options.

The exclusive rankings, which include more than 1,400 schools nationwide, are available today at www.usnews.com/colleges, will also be published in the September issue of the U.S.News & World Report magazine, on newsstands starting August 20.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,800 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2008, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the fourth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

“We chose Anderson University and the other terrific schools we recommend as our ‘regional best’ colleges primarily for their excellent academic programs,” said Robert Franek, Princeton Review’s Vice President of Publishing. “We also work to have our roster of ‘regional best’ colleges feature a range of institutions by size, selectivity, character and locale. We choose the schools based on institutional data we collect from several hundred schools in each region, our visits to schools over the years, and the opinions of independent and high school-based college advisors whose recommendations we invite. We also take into account what each school’s customers – their students – report to us about their campus experiences at them on our 80-question student survey.”

The 158 colleges The Princeton Review chose for this year’s “Best in the Midwest” designations are located in twelve states: Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. The Princeton Review also designated 218 colleges in the Northeast, 123 in the West, and 141 in the Southeast as best in their locales on the company’s 2010 Best Colleges: Region by Region section on its Web site. The 640 colleges named “regional best(s)” represent only about 25% (one out of four) of the nation’s 2,500 four-year colleges.

The Princeton Review does not rank the colleges in its 2010 Best Colleges Region by Region Web site section. The Princeton Review survey for this project asks students to rate their own schools on several issues — from the accessibility of their professors to quality of the campus food — and answer questions about themselves, their fellow students, and their campus life.

The Princeton Review is known for its tutoring and classroom test preparation courses, books, and college and graduate school admission services. Its corporate headquarters is in Framingham, MA, and editorial offices are in New York City. It is not affiliated with Princeton University and it is not a magazine.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,800 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2008, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the fourth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

“I’m looking, but …,” said 37-year-old Dawn Vetor, of Madison County, her voice trailing off. “I have some prospects, but nothing fluid.”

Angela Shelton, 30, Anderson, a former paraeducator at East Side Middle School, was a little more upbeat.

“I’m optimistic,” said Shelton, her silver braces shined as she flashed a bright grin. “I’m looking for a job.”

Both women, graduating with bachelor’s degrees in organizational leadership, were among the 700 students going through Anderson University’s 91st commencement.

Like Shelton, many graduates were hopeful of their future job prospects, despite not yet having offers.

“I’m trying to be optimistic,” said Jon Weber, 22, a native of Cincinnati, Ohio. “It’s rough.”

Weber, who received a degree in marketing, said he’s had five interviews and applied at 15 to 20 companies. But he’s received no offers.

Emily Wasonga seemed nonplused at her job prospects. The 21-year-old native of Kenya earned degrees in international education and communications on Saturday. She said she had no concrete career plans, but emphasized the university’s aim of instilling a sense of Christian service in its students. She said she wants to work in a humanitarian field.

“If it’s a matter of making money,” Wasonga said, “there are a lot of ways to make money.”

Commencement speaker Carl H. Caldwell touched on the unsettling nature of the times.

“To say you graduate in an uncertain time is an understatement,” he said. “If you’re not worried about this, I guarantee your parents are.”

But Caldwell said there’s a lack of certainty at all times — including when he graduated from Anderson University in 1966 during the Cold War.

“Every graduating class has had to face problems,” he said.

Caldwell, the school’s vice president of academic affairs, retired at the end of the school year. He had been with Anderson University since 1996. He earned his master’s degree in history from Ohio University and his doctorate in history from Indiana University.

Next year, Caldwell and his wife, Carolyn, an accounting professor at AU, will move to the Middle East, where they will teach at American University of Iraq in Sulaimani.

But Caldwell’s speech offered a reassuring tone.

“Seeing you before me, I feel very proud of our future,” he said.

For a full gallery of photos, visit The Herald Bulletin site.

—Shawn McGrath is a reporter for The Herald Bulletin. Photo credits: Don Knight. Story republished with permission.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,800 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2008, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the fourth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Thomas, a Center for Public Service fellow, first gained cross-cultural experience by traveling with Tri-S to London in 2005. Since London, she has participated in five additional Tri-S trips and in May will travel to Australia. [Pictured left with students in Russia.]

“Carrie exemplifies the scholar/leader who is committed to academic excellence, international travel and education, public service, as well as campus and community leadership,” said Joel Shrock, Director of Center for Public Service. “Carrie’s record of accomplishments is beyond impressive, it is dazzling.”

Through each international experience, Thomas learned it was possible to pursue her career outside the traditional American public school system. Along with a strong interest in European culture, Thomas started her international teaching journey at Anderson University by serving on the licensing feasibility committee for adding the English as a New Language Program. She will be receiving a certification in English as a New Language.

“Dr. Nelson encouraged me to think about applying for the Fulbright Scholarship during an international politics class I took in the fall of my junior year,” said Thomas. Thomas started the application process after accepting a position at Dubravushka Boarding School in Obninsk, Russian Federation, as an English Language teacher for students ages 5-17.

Most recently, Thomas was a student teacher in Vienna, Austria, this past semester at the Danube International School. She student taught English A and English as a Second Language, in the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme for grades 6-10.

“Both Russia and Austria were different opportunities and experiences,” said Thomas. “In Russia, teaching was more difficult because I had few resources and little structure with which to work. In Vienna, I had more support and was paired with a great collaborating teacher as opposed to teaching on my own. I think teaching on my own first was a more backwards approach but one that served as a great opportunity.” [Pictured right in Vienna.]

Thomas’ award is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. Her responsibilities will include teaching English as a foreign language at Gymnasium Jura Hronca (Grammar and Secondary High School) in Bratislava, Slovakia. She will also work on conducting some independent research on language teaching and the education system of Slovakia.

Thomas is graduating May 9 with a 4.0 GPA and is a Presidential Scholar, Sigma Tau Delta (English Honors Society) 2007-08 president, Kappa Delti Pi (Education Honors Society) 2007-08 secretary, AU International Education Committee member, AU English as a New Language Committee member and Athletic Committee member. Thomas also started her own Carrie Thomas Youth in Philanthropy Endowed Fund through the Hendricks Community Foundation which provides grants to youth organizations and is a member of AU’s Women’s Golf Team.

She is the only AU English major to have received the Recognition of Excellence for her PRAXIS II English Language, Literature, and Composition exam. This honor is earned by scoring in the top 15 percent of candidates nationwide who took the test in the past five years.

“Carrie is best described as an ambitious academician, intellectually courageous, highly admired by faculty and students, always considerate of the needs of others, and one who works well with people of all ages and backgrounds,” said Dean of the School of Education Diana Ross. “She has been an outstanding student leader at Anderson University.” [Pictured left in Slovakia.]

Thomas’ grant starts in the fall of 2009 and will last 10 months. She plans to start graduate work in the future on comparative and international education along with second language acquisition.

“It is amazing how God places people in your life at the right time and right place,” said Thomas. “ God has blessed me with opportunities like Tri-S, ENL and people like Dr. Nelson, Dr. Shrock, and Dr. Ross who have helped shape and guide my future plans.”

The Fulbright Program is the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government and is designed to “increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries.” With this goal as a starting point, the Fulbright Program has provided almost 300,000 participants—chosen for their academic merit and leadership potential — with the opportunity to study, teach and conduct research, exchange ideas and contribute to finding solutions to shared international concerns.

- Stefanie Leiter is the Web Content Manager at Anderson University.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,800 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2008, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the fourth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Amy Lynn Bader is majoring in Elementary Education and has spent this semester student teaching in first and third grade. After graduation, she will be getting married and moving back to her home state of Ohio, where she is seeking an elementary teaching position.

Andrea C. Brinkley will graduate with a degree in Elementary Education. Following a final Tri-S trip to Romania and Hungary, she hopes to find an elementary teaching position in Indiana next school year.

Katie Ann Kinman will major in Elementary Education with a specialization in Character Education and a minor in Spanish. After graduating, she plans to teach in an elementary school in the central Indiana area beginning this fall. She also hopes to pursue a Master’s degree in the field of education.

Rachel Elizabeth Koontz is double-major in Chemistry and Biology. After graduation, she will work on earning a Doctor of Medicine degree at either Wake Forest University or Indiana University School of Medicine.

Candice Nichole Lane is a double major in Psychology and Spanish. After graduation she will move to Indianapolis and begin a year-long research assistantship with IUPUI. This summer she will get married and apply to psychology graduate programs.

Carrie Anne Thomas is majoring in Language Arts Education and International Education with certification in English as a New Language. She was recently selected for a Fulbright Award through the Fulbright Program for U.S. Students, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. After graduation Carrie will assume her English Teaching Assistantship in the Slovak Republic, teaching English as a Foreign language at Gymnasium Jura Hronca (Grammar and Secondary High School) in Bratislava. While there, she will also conduct independent research on language teaching and the education system of Slovakia and participate in additional school and community activities.

Raymond Joseph Kenney and Erica Christine Narwold were unable to attend.

Jeremiah Townsell is a Criminal Justice major from South Bend, IN. As a four year starter for the Raven football team, Jeremiah twice earned 1st team ALL-HCAC honors. He ranks 10th on the career tackles list, 9th on the career sacks list, and 2nd on the career tackle for a loss list. Jeremiah was the 2008 Defensive MVP, 2007 and 2008 Lineman of the Year and was a Team Captain during the 2007 and 2008 seasons.

Melenda Hawthore is an exercise science major from Indianapolis, IN. As a four year member of the women’s basketball team, Melenda earned HCAC All-Conference honors in the 2006-2007 and the 2008-2009 seasons. She was a member of the HCAC All-Tournament Teams in the 2006-2007 and 2008 -2009 seasons. In addition, she was a finalist for the HCAC Player of the Year in 2008-09. This past season Melenda became one of only 7 players in the history of AU women’s basketball to score 1,000 points. As a two year member of the track and field team, Hawthorne was twice named to the HCAC –All Conference team; in 2006 in the high jump and in 2007 in the javelin.

—David Hynds is the Web Content Specialist for Anderson University.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,800 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2008, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the fourth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

Director of the Career Development Center Maryann Coty shared that over 700 current undergraduate students have utilized the center’s resources and services.

“Using our office resources, meeting with our staff, or simply viewing the Career Development Center web site can help direct students with their internship and employment search,” said Coty.

Alumni contacting the Career Development Center for career advice, resume help, or connecting them to other alumni has increased due to layoffs and the current economy since the fall of 2008. Through a new intuitive headed by the Alumni office, the Alumni Mentoring Program creates a connection with students and alumni, and even alumni with other alumni to network professionally in their given industry and region.

“Connecting with our office is important either as a student, an alumni, or serving as an Alumni Mentor,” said Coty. “Industry networking connects students to the organizations they wish to pursue in an effort to research the job market, how the economy affects the industry, and the different sectors to their career choice.”

One example was the recent April 3 Media Career Day the Career Development Center, INvision AU and the Dept. of Communications Arts hosted in Reardon Auditorium. The Career Development Center brought in alumni from a television station, radio station, reporters, a publishing company, and newspapers to allow students to see all the job opportunities and majors encompassed in the media industry. This not only helps with networking efforts but helps undeclared students to see the vast opportunities in the media field. [Media Day pictured left.]

INvision AU is another tool the Career Development Center offers in finding paid internships for students. The Lilly Endowment grant allows AU to place interns in an organization with an agreement that the company matches the grant for future interns.

“This is a great opportunity to help students find internships, to gain experience, build required soft skills, connect students with an organization, and build a foundation for their career plan,” said Coty.

Coty breaks down each class year below to prepare students for internships and employment:

Senior Year

• Make sure your resume clearly identifies the education and skills you’ve obtained. When apply for a job, target your resume toward the organization and the job description.
• Actively get in touch with your network list. Contact everyone you know, relationships built over your time at AU, alumni connections, internships, part time jobs, volunteering in the community, etc.
• Let your network know what field you are interested in and that you are graduating.
• Attend job fairs to learn about organizations and job opportunities, and to make connections.
• At the start of your senior year have a good understanding as to when organizations within your field of interest recruit for employment. Some organizations may recruit in the fall for the following summer. This requires a great deal of researching of organizations. With today’s economy be open to taking internships.
• Follow up with the organizations in which you’ve applied for employment.

Junior Year

• Actively search for a summer internship. Talk to your faculty advisor, an alumni mentor, your network, and the career center.
• Contact the career center to prepare for interviews.
• Research the different skills you will need to develop and/or improve upon within your field of interest. Internships are a great way to develop communication, organizational, team building, leadership, and other skills organizations seek in entry level employees.
• Determine your strengths versus your weaknesses.
• Prepare to be competitive in the job market.

Sophomore Year

• Connect with alumni. Learn about the job opportunities available within your field of interest. Alumni can help educate you on what is current in the industry.
• Begin to create your network list. Include family, friends, faculty, alumni, and other professionals.
• Start networking early with alumni and everyone you know. Connections are the key to building lasting professional relationships.

Freshman Year

• Develop a short- and long-term career plan that meets your career goals with the assistance of a career counselor.
• Your resume allows you to see the knowledge and skills you currently possess.
• Sign up for LART 1200, Career and Life Planning, if undeclared. The class encourages those students who are undecided to determine interests relative to the current job market.

To view further information on a student timeline, click here.

“I wish employers knew how much we desire to have jobs and how eager we are to enter the work force – that’s a charisma not a lot of employees can say they still have,” said senior art major Dane Benton on today’s economy and job market search.

The CDC assists students and alumni with applying their academic and life experiences to attain career goals; provides them with the services and resources necessary to make better informed career decisions; and develops the skills necessary to implement their career plans.

—Stefanie Leiter is the Web Content Manager at Anderson University.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,750 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2008, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the fourth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.

While at Eastern Mennonite University (EMU), Morris has served as a faculty member in the Nursing Department, Chair of the Nursing Department, Honors Program Director, Self-Study Director for EMU’s reaccreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools, Associate Academic Dean, and Vice President & Undergraduate Academic Dean.

Dr. Morris earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Eastern Mennonite University, a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Virginia, and a Ph.D. in Nursing Administration from George Mason University. Her dissertation was entitled, Voices of Women: A Qualitative Study of Effective Female Nurse Faculty.

Dr. Morris has been listed in Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers and she is an Executive Leadership Development Fellow within the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU). She has received the Bennett, Kellogg, & Mellon Scholarship, the Edgar A. Thurman Foundation Grant and the Lilly Fellows Faculty Mentoring Program Grant.

She presently serves as a Board Member with Lilly Fellows National Network; Chair of the Mennonite Education Agency Deans & Marpeck Deans; Member of Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor Society (Epsilon Zeta and Pi Mu), and Institutional Representative for Virginia Network for Women and a Reaccreditation Evaluator for Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools.

Anderson University is a private Christian university of 2,700 undergraduate and graduate students in central Indiana. Anderson continues to be recognized as a top Christian college: in 2008, U.S. News and World Report ranked Anderson University among the best colleges and universities in the Midwest for the fourth consecutive year. Established in 1917 by the Church of God, Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, education, music, nursing and theology.